Phlebotomist

Job Summary:

The Phlebotomist is a front-line customer service representative of NIHD. The phlebotomist is primarily responsible for collecting patient samples such as blood and urine for laboratory testing ordered by providers. Phlebotomists evaluate/enter orders in the Laboratory Information System (LIS) and will address any Advance Beneficiary Notices (ABNs) with the patient at the time of service. The Phlebotomist is expected to maintain the highest degree of confidentiality in all areas involving patients and their related hospital business, conducts hospital business in an ethical and lawful manner, is willing to report any knowledge of real or potential fraud or abuse according to the NIH Compliance Code of Conduct, and abides by the NIHD Personnel Policies and Procedures. 

Job Relationships:

1. Directly responsible to the Laboratory Services Manager.
2. Works closely with the Lead Laboratory Assistant and other laboratory staff. 
3. May take instruction from Clinical Laboratory Scientists (CLS)

Occupational Hazards:

Works in the general hospital setting. May be exposed to blood, body fluids, or tissues as well as patients in varying stages of infectious states.  

Samples of Duties:

The information listed below is meant to serve as samples of job duties and responsibilities for positions in this classification. This list is neither inclusive nor exclusive, but indicative of several types of duties performed. 

• Safely performs venipuncture or heel sticks on patients of all ages as appropriate
• Properly identifies patients per SOP
• Screens orders for billing/regulatory requirements. Contacts offices/providers to fix unsatisfactory orders
• Ensures ABNs are signed as required
• Enters/activates orders in the Laboratory Information System (LIS) in accordance with SOP
• Ensures all ordered tests are collected, following specimen requirements
• Performs a wide range of duties including filing, faxing, scanning, answering phones, and monitoring supply inventory
• Collects and handles patient specimens including but not limited to blood, urine, and stool, using Universal Precautions 
• Instructs patients how to collect specimens at home, as appropriate
• Transports specimens to the Specimen Processing area in the laboratory per SOP
• Retrieves collected patient specimens from the NIHD clinics and delivers to Specimen Processing
• Completes annual education requirements and maintains competencies
• Collects Drug Screens and performs Breath Alcohol Tests, if trained/assigned
• Other duties as assigned

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

Knowledge of:

• Phlebotomy and heel stick best practice
• Order entry procedures and proper patient identification procedures
• Sharps handling and biohazardous waste disposal
• Emergency procedures for patients that have adverse reactions to phlebotomy
• Computer skills including using Microsoft Office suite
• Using Cerner LIS/EHR
• The Mission, Vision, and Values of Northern Inyo Healthcare District; 
• NIHD policies and procedures, including Compliance Program, Code of Conduct, and Confidentiality standards;
• NIHD safety policies and procedures, including the Rainbow Chart, Employee Health, and Infection Prevention standards;

Skills/Abilities to:

• Multitask efficiently while maintaining excellent attention to detail
• Excellent problem solving skills 
• Ability to work independently and as a team
• Interact professionally and safely with patients 
• Communicate effectively both verbally and in writing with NIHD staff and the public;
• Establish and maintain professional working relationships with NIHD staff at all levels as well as the public;
• Develop and maintain a high degree of maturity, integrity, and good judgement.

Minimum Qualifications:

Experience:

                        Entry level.

Education: 

            Completion of Phlebotomy Training Program including clinical rotation

            High School Graduate or completion of GED

Certification: 

            Valid State of California Certified Phlebotomy Technician I (CPT I) License

            Basic Lifesaving/CPR Certification within 6 months of hire

Preferred: 

Experience:

                        Phlebotomy experience within the last 12 months 

                        Experience in an acute care setting

                        Working in Cerner LIS/EHR

                        Experience working in a customer service role